Canberra CityNews August 11-17, 2011

The creeping blight of school fences

Fences around schools are an ugly blight on the urban landscape, says MICHAEL MOORE

PETER Harrison must be rolling in his grave. The proliferation of school fences simply torpedoes his vision for Canberra.

From the 1960s Canberra’s suburbs were developed to have a heart with the primary school and the shops close to each other and within safe walking distance of the surrounding homes.

Schools and their surrounds were designed to be part of the infrastructure rather than an edifice that is only open for lessons from nine to three on weekdays.

Harrison followed on from Walter Burley Griffin as the second great Canberra planner. He was the chief planner of the National Capital Development Commission from 1959 until the late 1960s and was responsible for much of the way Canberra looks today with the dispersed city centres, the Yplan and the current suburban form.

The Gungahlin suburb of Harrison is named after him.

The character of Canberra suburbs originates from the “garden city concept” of Ebenezer Howard and included suburbs without front fences.

A similar concept was extended to schools that were designed to be at the hub of the local community with easy access after hours and throughout the weekend.

The playing fields of the schools were not only designed for the school, but to be part of the community infrastructure. Kicking a footy, throwing a ball, taking a dog for a walk and similar activities are just part the open urban environment of a healthy community.

A spokesman for Deputy Chief Minister, Andrew Barr, told “CityNews” that there are more school fences to come.

The ACT schools budget under the Security Fencing Program for 2010-11 “allocated $1 million for the installation of security fences at schools assessed as having a high and medium-security risk. Work has been completed at the Hughes, Lyneham and Monash Primary Schools, Lanyon and Lyneham High Schools and Canberra College (Woden campus)”.

However, it is not stopping there. Funds have been allocated in the 201112 budget for the installation of security fences at a further six schools; Southern Cross Early Childhood School, Latham, Macquarie, Torrens and Wanniassa Primary Schools and Black Mountain School.

The plague is rapidly spreading with the Minister’s office suggesting that more than 40 schools have now been fenced. Are there any schools that will not be considered a security risk and will escape the pestilence?

Fencing at Hughes Primary School... bigger and more dramatic than fences around a series of relatively new embassies in nearby Deakin – where a genuine security risk exists.

It seems the left hand has no idea what the right hand is doing.

The budget proposals have come through education and the planners have allowed them to slip through. It is not hard to understand schools wanting to deal with issues such as incidence of vandalism, break and enter or graffiti attacks.

However, such reasons have to be balanced against community benefit that comes from open urban spaces, the character of our city and the options for handling such issues.

Another factor that is taken into account is how close schools are situated close to public places. This is the very

point. Schools are, and should remain, public places.

The Government might argue that there has been strong school community support for completed fences. However, they are an ugly blight on the urban landscape.

The fence around Hughes Primary School, for example, is much bigger and more dramatic than fences around a series of relatively new embassies in nearby Deakin – where a genuine security risk exists.

They also argue the design of new security fences “complement and enhance the existing security systems in schools” and “designs, and align-

The comparatively less-secure fencing around the embassy of Botswana.

ments are in accordance with planning regulations”. They also argue fences are tested against the principles and strategies of crime prevention fencing guidelines. Such arguments carry some weight, but have not been adequately balanced against the community loss.

Most people would accept placing a fence next to a busy road. However, this school fencing program is simply a creeping urban blight and should be terminated.

Michael Moore was an independent member of the ACT Legislative Assembly (1989 to 2001) and was minister for health.

A passion for colourful yarns

By Kathryn Vukovljak

AFTER her 60th birthday

“just came and went”, artist Beverley Thomas says she wanted to mark her 70th somehow – and the idea for her latest show, “ Score Plus 0” was born.

The mixed media show, which is showing at the Watson Arts Centre until August 28, features tapestries, prints and paintings.

“I applied to the Arts Centre because that’s where it all started for me,” says Beverley. “It’s also a great space, so I’m very happy.”

Classes she took in patchwork, embroidery and batik 30 years ago started her on a new and unexpected career path, says Beverley – and now tapestry weaving is her preferred medium.

“It’s repetitious, yet because I create original designs it gives me the opportunity to use colour,” she says. “I mix yarns together and use interesting textures.

“I sit at the loom as if I’m driving a car, I have music playing and I’m in my own world. I prefer to work alone.”

As her love of textiles grew, Beverley moved on to the Embroiderer’s Guild, and later took a major part in the Parliament House embroidery, she says. She also ran an interior decorating business, which at

or

one time supplied David Jones with quilts and gift items.

“I don’t think they knew it was just me,” she laughs. “They never asked!” Beverley says she has a fascination for the land.

“For me, it is not visiting the landscape that holds my interest, but living in it,” she says. “Being a great traveller, I have visited deserts in Australia, Spain, India and prairie country in Canada, where the mix of colours excites me.

“I work visually, not from photographs, triggered by colour or space.

“I recently flew over the inland lakes which has inspired my next body of work.”

August 11-18, 2011 Since 1993: Volume 17, Number 30

Most recently artist-in-residence at Calvary Hospital, Beverley says that “3 Score Plus 10” has been two and a half years in the making.

“I couldn’t be happier with how it has turned out,” she says.

“I enjoy the freedom of running my own business and making my own decisions. I’m proud to have been able to fund my artworks myself.

“I feel blessed, as this is the most comfortable time of my life.”

“3 Score Plus 10”, Watson Arts Centre, Aspinall Street, Watson. Open Thursday to Sunday, 10am-4pm, until August 28.

Editor: Ian Meikle, editor@citynews.com.au

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Regrets as Myf leaves on a high

By Freyla Ferguson

THE final episode of the ABC’s TV hit “Spicks and Specks” hasn’t even aired and Myf Warhust already has some regret about leaving the show.

“I don’t know what I’ll do – I’ll probably be working at the ABC as the canteen lady,” she says.

“It’s nice to end on a high – most people don’t get that luxury – usually when a show ends its because it’s been axed.

“It’s been seven years, like an extra-long uni degree. And we’ve been all very aware of not dragging it out.”

After seven years, the top-rating program will air its final episode on Wednesday, November 23. To mark the end of the program, the team, Adam Hills, Alan Brough and, of course, Myf will hit the road as part of their stage show – “The Spicks and Spec-tacular”.

Although Myf says she’s happy to have kept a job in television for seven years, the trio has been contemplating finishing the show “every year, for the past four years.”

Myf says her highlights of being part of the show, include nudity – getting naked with Pete Murray under the desk and seeing Frank Woodley’s “bits”.

Currently, Myf is working on a six-part arts and entertainment documentary series for the ABC.

“Spicks and Spec-tacular”, National Convention Centre, December 10-11.

Shane helps out the Highlands

By Freyla Ferguson

MLA Shane Rattenbury was in Papua New Guinea last week opening the Highlands’ first Greens office.

The overseas, self-funded trip, usually reserved for Greens Senators, was offered to Mr Rattenbury, due to his past experience with Greenpeace and their forest protection campaigning.

Mr Rattenbury said it was only early days for the Greens in PNG, but the country was open to change and looking for something new and honest.

“There’s a real sense of anger, that the government has failed in the sense of the people,” he said.

“They want an end to corruption, improvement of environmental protection and ensuring the wealth of the country goes back into the wealth of the people.

“My sense when chatting to people, in my own travels and with the work I was doing for the Greens, was a desire for change.”

PNG’s biggest industries include, the mining of oil, gold and copper, and timber. The country is also the biggest recipient of Australian aid.

Mr Rattenbury said in past PNG elections, votes were based on personality opposed to policy.

“The traditional way of thinking is ‘I vote for you if there’s a benefit for me’,” he said.

But according to Mr Rattenbury, the change has already begun with the leader of the PNG Greens party, Dorothy Tekwie, the first female leader of any political party in the country.

He said as well as the official ceremonies and dinners, he also worked closely with party members to share his political experience leading up to their election next year.

“Election campaigning is just totally different up there,” he said.

“The party members thought door knocking with the funniest thing they’ve heard of.

“They don’t have suburbs up

there, they live in traditional huts, so the thought of getting chased by dogs and having the door slammed in your face was very funny to them.”

Rattenbury is wrong, says Seselja, Page 8 Shane’s long bow, letters, Page 11

Big gong goes to ‘humble’ Tom

FREYLA FERGUSON meets a young man with a prize-winning flair for physics

PHYSICS Olympian Tom Pearson isn’t your regular science geek.

The 18-year-old Burgmann Anglican School student, whose hobbies include surfing and snowboarding, has recently claimed a bronze medal in physics at the International Science Olympiads.

After a gruelling three weeks training with mentor Shane Barrett, Tom travelled to Thailand with a team of Australia’s top five secondary students in physics to compete in the international competition.

Tom says the competition was in two parts – experimental and theoretical – both five hours long.

“The experimental side, is like levitating magnetic rings,” Tom said with a laugh.

“I’ve kind of blocked it out of my memory, it was kinda traumatic.

“The theoretical side, you have three problems, you are given problems and you have to work it out.

“So its basically the person who can think about it and actually work out what’s going on and get the answer.”

The International Science Olympiads is an annual competition

for secondary students from more than 100 countries. It is divided into three areas – biology, physics and chemistry.

“Put it this way, I never expected to meet people from Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, Ethiopia,” he said.

“The good thing is we were there for 10 days, and the competition was held over the first three or four days, so you’ve got a week to spend not hating each other because they were beating you or whatever.

“There is a social aspect as well, where they try and bring the world’s leading scientists together and world co-operation.”

He said he was surprised to win the bronze medal.

“I felt surprised, happy,” he said. “I would have been happy with an honorable mention, that’s what I was shooting for, aiming for, hoping for.

“There is a sense of satisfaction from solving problems.”

Tom, whose parents are both Oxford University graduates, said he had “always been really good” at science.

“Then I did a test and I did really well and suddenly this whole world opened up,” he said.

“I had no idea I was this smart.

“I lived in England for three years and bumbled along and did alright.

“Then I came here and I topped the classes – and I thought: ‘That’s a good feeling’, I can actually work at this.

“Last year there was a test, it was like an entry exam, I got a call two months later saying I was top 24 in Australia and I was like: ‘What!?’; it kinda blew my mind.”

Tom hopes to study medicine at the University of Sydney next year.

“It’ll be challenging, it’ll be enjoyable, I get to help people, fix people, pays a lot of money – you were waiting for that one weren’t you?” Tom says.

Burgmann Anglican School chemistry teacher Rosemary Waters spoke highly of, not only Tom’s academic achievements, but strength of character.

“The other lovely part of him is he mentors the other kids,” she said.

“He has generosity of spirit – he’s humble.”

Parton tilts at Welshy’s crown

Maiko’s eye for human holy beauty

By Kathryn Vukovljak

A FASINATION with indigenous people has brought photographer Maiko Yoshimoto here from Tokyo.

“I’m interested in people, in human beings; I think they’re beautiful,” she says.

“I love to shoot the moment when people shine. There is always a moment that’s worth capturing, when something special happens.

“That’s why I particularly enjoy photographing indigenous people undergoing a ceremony of some kind.

“I’m not sure if they are connecting with God, or what it is, but the special moment appears more there than in daily life. The beauty of these people is different, almost holy and more beautiful.”

The 28-year-old Japanese freelance photographer has just arrived to study at the ANU’s School of Archaeology and Anthropology, and says that after just two weeks she’s already besotted with Canberra. “I love this country so far. It’s very comfortable here,” she says. “It’s quiet compared to Tokyo, but much more than I expected.

“It’s a good place to concentrate on my studies!”

Supported by the Rotary Club of Woden, Maiko is studying a masters degree in Liberal Arts (Visual Culture Research) at ANU, under Prof Nicolas Peterson, who taught her professor in Hiroshima.

“It’s a good connection for me to be here, learning from my professor’s professor,” she says.

Maiko says she plans to do some work with the Rotary Club while she’s here, and that she’s excited to take advantage of all the opportunities she will experience in Australia – including potentially doing an internship at an art gallery over the summer, and eventually exhibiting her work.

Mike Welsh and Mark Parton... head to head.

TALKBACK radio veteran and 2CC drive presenter Mike Welsh will go head-to-head with colleague and breakfast presenter Mark Parton at this year’s Australian Commercial Radio Awards for the best provincial talk presenter.

“Welshy” has won the award six times and four times consecutively since 2007. This year he has been also nominated for best non-metro current affairs presenter.

His producer, Monica Masters, has been nominated for the second year in a row for best show producer – talk current affairs – provincial, an award she won last year.

She is up against Matt Mitchell, Parton’s former producer.

Pete Curulli, from Mix 106.3’s “Breakfast with Pete and Biggzy”, has received a nomination for best provincial newcomer on-air and, also from Mix 106.3, Gerald (Kiwi G) Morunga was nominated for best provincial sports presenter.

104.7FM news presenter Kate Taylor was nominated for best news presenter for country and provincial.

Promotions manager for both 104.7 and Mix 106.3, Zak Davies received a nomination for best promotions director non-metro. 104.7 also received nominations in sales.

The national awards will be decided at a dinner on the Gold Coast on October 15.

“I’d like to perhaps collaborate with an artist for a show,” she says. “I’ve done something similar with the Ainu, an indigenous tribe in Japan.

“I took photographs while they worked and exhibited them alongside their embroidery.”

Maiko says she has also lived with the Mangyan people in the Philippines, as part of her undergraduate studies in cultural anthropology at Hiroshima University.

“The tribe lived in a very natural way, with no electricity, no gas, no water.

“It was an amazing experience for me.”

Maiko says that being in Australia and learning more about Aboriginal people is her dream come true.

“One year here is too short!” she says. “I think I’ll stay on, perhaps do my PhD here.”

Speaker Shane can’t dodge upholding the rule of law

THE rule of law is not an optional extra for lawmakers.

As Members of the Legislative Assembly, our code of conduct states that we “agree to respect and uphold the law”.

I was deeply disappointed, though perhaps not shocked, that Green MLA and Speaker of the Assembly Shane Rattenbury endorsed the actions of protesters who destroyed a reported $300,000 worth of property at the CSIRO, not to mention the setting back the efforts of our scientists in seeking to make food production safer, more efficient through better technologies, simply because the protesters deeply believed in their cause.

It is untenable for a lawmaker to be an advocate for unlawful behaviour, but even more so for the Speaker of a parliament to do so. The Speaker holds a particular role in upholding the rule of law and maintaining the legitimacy of the Assembly.

Shane Rattenbury is not just an errant backbencher. He holds a role to maintain respect for the Assembly and the law. His decision to endorse illegal destruction is completely incompatible with that role.

Moreover, no mainstream political party can or should condone the deliberate and illegal destruction of property, no matter how strongly held the beliefs of the people who carry out these acts.

Imagine the outrage if climate-change sceptics decided to destroy the offices of the scientists at the CSIRO who conduct climate-change

Last week, the Greens’ Shane Rattenbury explained why he supported civil disobedience in the wake of the protest destruction of a CSIRO genetically modified crop in Gunghalin. But Opposition Leader ZED SESELJA isn’t having a bar of it...

modelling? What would happen if extremists sought to destroy the Speaker’s office, or Mr Rattenbury’s personal property? Would the Greens really endorse the action because it came from a sincerely held belief that the cause is just? Of course not.

Yet that is exactly what the Greens through their spokesman Shane Rattenbury did in relation to the Greenpeace action.

And this was no minor crime. This was not a “peaceful protest”. The actions of these vandals destroyed over a year of work, around $300,000 worth of property and set the cause of feeding the world back significantly. It was an act of thuggery and intimidation as much as it was an act of property destruction.

Even if their cause was just, which it isn’t, they would deserve condemnation. The alternative is that every group with a cause would be encouraged by Shane Rattenbury to take the law into their own hands. Where would it end? There are many people with causes in our society, some I agree with and many I do not.

Our role as lawmakers is to advocate for the laws we want changed, respect the verdict of the Assembly and encourage those agitating for change to use legitimate means rather than

engage in destruction and intimidation.

As lawmakers, we don’t get to choose which laws should be respected. We do get the opportunity and responsibility to encourage peaceful, lawful means to create change.

The silence of the Greens leadership is also deeply concerning. Meredith Hunter has been silent on the issue, which suggests either that this endorsement of illegal behaviours is now Greens policy, or Ms Hunter has no control over her parliamentary colleagues. This is deeply worrying for a party that holds the balance of power in the Assembly.

Mr Rattenbury has claimed that he must endorse the illegal destruction of property because to do otherwise would amount to hypocrisy on his part.

I contend that endorsing property destruction and illegal protests, yet continuing to sit as the Speaker of the Territory’s law-making body is equally hypocritical, equally vacuous and completely indefensible.

I agree with Shane Rattenbury on one point, I’m very happy for the Greens to be judged on this stance at the next election, but he will also have to face the precedent of parliament and the respect he deserves in the role until then.

Where’s the Greens’ leader?

Meredith Hunter has been silent on the issue, which suggests either that this endorsement of illegal behaviours is now Greens policy, or Ms Hunter has no control over her parliamentary colleagues.

– o pposition Leader Zed seselja

If the Greens had a leader instead of a ‘convenor’, Meredith Hunter would be pulling Rattenbury back into line.

–Michael Moore, “c ity n ews”, July 28

Taking it to the streets with the Night Patrol

MOST Canberrans are oblivious to the fact that we have hundreds of homeless people in our town. The rough edges of that reality are difficult to face but are cushioned somewhat by the services of St Vincent De Paul’s Night Patrol.

I had the pleasure of hosting the 10th anniversary shindig for the Night Patrol earlier this month.

Megs Skillicorn was there when it all started in 2001. The now-public servant was a wide-eyed, energetic 19-year-old back then when she was installed as the co-ordinator.

Breakfast announcer MARK PARTON, of CC, sees a lot of cold, early mornings in Canberra from the comfort of a heated car or studio, but he cannot imagine sleeping rough in this town in winter

about soup, or coffee or biscuits, it’s about connection.

“In Canberra homelessness is often invisible,” Megan told me. “It’s safer for the homeless to not be seen, and for many of them it was a big thing to come forward and accept our services.”

Bob Wilson, CEO of Vinnies in our region, points out that the Night Patrol is not so much

She took to the role like a duck to water. Within a few weeks, the growing number of homeless souls in our town didn’t just look forward to the appearance of the van, they depended on it.

“It’s about meeting and engaging with people,” Bob told me. “Just listening is often the most important thing.”

Bob’s voice wavered with emotion as he addressed volunteers at the anniversary party. He knows first hand the sacrifices that they’ve made

in the last decade to keep this service running. And he’s well aware of the way that the service has changed lives on the streets. Vinnies and the other relief agencies are struggling to cope with the growing number of people seeking assistance. Mortgage stress and the increasing cost of living are forcing more Canberrans than ever before to seek a helping hand from Vinnies, the Salvos and various churches. Bob and his volunteers will continue with the Night Patrol into the next decade. If you want to donate money to a charity which is making a difference locally, you can’t go past St Vincent De Paul.

No soft spot for Manuka’s many ‘speed cushions’

THANK you for drawing attention to the “speed cushions” that have been installed in certain Manuka streets (“Manuka ‘speed cushions’ anger motorists”, CN August 4).

I am a resident of Deakin, but travel to Manuka almost daily and I, for one, have changed my route to try and avoid these “speed cushions”. This is not because I have any problem with speed humps, but because of the design and placement on the road of these particular “speed cushions”. Many motorists change direction as they approach these “speed cushions” in order to straddle one of the “cushions”. Often motorists aim at the inside “cushion”, which brings them very close to the curb and this can be quite dangerous if a cyclist or pedestrian happens to be in the vicinity.

TAMS’ proposed six-month survey of crashes and traffic flows misses the point; it is the design and placement of these “speed cushions” that is the problem and this aspect should also be included in their survey of residents/motorists opinions.

In relation to the comment towards the end of your article that “information will also be available on the ACT Government website and feedback can be submitted online or in writing” could I suggest you get a commitment from TAMS to let “CityNews” know when this information is put on TAMS website so that persons other than those in “directly affected residences” can be informed when and how to submit comments?

n eal Davis, Deakin

Rattenbury’s long bow

I THOROUGHLY enjoyed reading Shane Rattenbury’s response to the criticisms he has received from the community “Why I support illegal protest,” CN, August 4). Especially the brilliantly long bow he drew comparing the destruction of scientific research with the civil rights and universal suffrage movements.

As to being “politically expedient” to condemn Greenpeace, it’s not really hypocritical to say “I don’t agree with their actions, but I can appreciate the sentiment”.

I know it’s a strange criticism, but it’s time for Shane to straddle that political fence and not take untenable positions.

t im Hill, c ampbell Columnist of contradictions

I FIND a massive contradiction in columnist Michael Moore’s reasoning and logic (“Greens thumb nose at the law”, CN, July 28).

Referring to the GM crop at Gunghalin, he states: “They [the Greens] are not in a position to condone any form of breaking the law – even if they privately agree with the objective”. But that is what Moore is doing in recommending his private objective [as author in his role of CEO, Australian Public Health Association, of a Government-sponsored report into needle exchange in prisons] a needle and syringe program for illegal drugs in our prison!

Laws must be broken and human rights of non-user prisoners, and guards, be ignored for employer cooperation in illegal drug use in the Alexander Maconochie Centre.

The Chief Minister states: “It’s politically easy to kill this off and do what every other jurisdiction in Australia has done... [but] I’m not prepared to put it to rest yet”. (“Canberra Times”, July 29).

Well, Chief Minister, all other jurisdictions having rejected the proposal means nearly 100 per cent of Australians have said “no” to what you are proposing. Canberrans are not aliens, so they would also say “no”. Finally, drug liberalisers must stop misleading the Canberra community by saying needles in the prison will reduce Hep C levels.

colliss Parrett, Barton

Apology for Moore?

I HOPE Patricia Saunders apologises for the

slur on Michael Moore, “Law abiding, Michael?” (CN, August 4). As a solicitor, she should provide evidence of her claim, not rely upon hearsay and not present in a “leading” fashion. Ric Hingee, Duffy

supported by students and staff.

Michael’s short memory

MICHAEL Moore has a short memory (Letters, editor’s note, CN August 4).

I was near the front of the French embassy anti-nuclear rally and saw Mr Moore, with a few others, rush at the police cordon, to be grappled by police. I did not assert that he was taken away, only that his photo appeared on the front page of “The Canberra Times”, scuffling with police, something that would not have occurred had he remained behind the police cordon.

When I subsequently wrote to Mr Moore protesting at his hijacking of an otherwise peaceful rally, knowing that his profile would ensure publicity, he replied that it was his right as a citizen to protest as he wished.

Patricia s aunders, c hapman

Fear of feral canola

MICHAEL Moore (“Greens thumb nose at the law”, CN, July 28) should note that the “democratic outcome” of Roundup Ready Canola is feral canola that cannot be removed using herbicides. The feral canola can only be removed mechanically (by hand, or by burning).

The catch with growing a GM crop in the open, while attempting to prove its safety, is that the pollen from that crop could be carried on the wind, by birds, by shoes, by insects or any number of mechanisms.

The law as it currently stands doesn’t hold Monsanto responsible for removal of feral Roundup Ready Canola. The law is currently being tested to determine if the person responsible for planting a GM crop in WA is responsible for cleaning up the spread of that GM crop to a farm that was previously Certified Organic. If I was to spill a million litres of diesel oil, I would also be responsible for cleaning it up. Why doesn’t the same apply to GM crops?

GM technology is just as dangerous as nuclear technology. It will only take one mistake to cause extensive damage to our health and wellbeing for centuries to come. a lex s atrapa , Isabella Plains Schools, no

place for God

THERE is no place for God in public-school counselling or mentoring. Nick Jensen (“In schools, nobody does it like chaplains”, CN

if they are gay. These students should have first recourse to someone independent of the churches who has the training to handle this type of situation properly.

And so, how very ironic that Mr Jensen is preaching to Michael Moore who, just four pages prior, in his otherwise excellent column emphasising the importance of correctly reporting religion in the Census, uses the highly offensive term “Christian morals”. There are a huge number of those people he urges to correctly identify themselves as having “no religion” who have strong family and community values and morals (golly, can you imagine – even atheists can!) yet Christians continue to appropriate these attributes for themselves.

We all, Mr Jensen, Mr Moore and the one-eyed devotees of the chaplaincy program included, should recognise that there are many, many good people of good morals in our community who have “no religion” but who, nonetheless, would make supportive and open-minded mentors in public schools.

Linda steadman, Palmerston

Importance of animals

On a (slightly) related note: the Lord Word Worm games (CN, July 21) weren’t half bad! As a word-game enthusiast, I’m proud to know the games are from home-grown Canberrans. Jake Grodski, Wanniassa dose of dorin

No other (unbiased) program is funded – they will take what they can get! And I am pretty sure no “chaplain”, with their overtly religious title and drawn from an evangelistic Christian group, is going to be non-judgmental of a teenage student considering abortion or wondering

KEEP up the good work Delta Society Australia! (“Too many dogs, not enough love”, CN, July 21). The article reminds us of the importance of animals in our society. Unfortunately, lack of funding and support often challenges our nonprofit animal welfare organisations. I urge your readers to consider assisting: adopt a pet, walk some dogs, make a donation. There are plenty of options available.

Hat trick for Sibu’s hair-care champions

WITH a whole swag of awards under their belts, the team at Sibu Hair are proving to be among Canberra’s best salons.

Sibu Hair was recently awarded Individual Salon of the Year 2011 in the International Hairstylist Society’s State Hairdressing Awards for the third consecutive year.

Sibu Hair manager Rhiannan Ward says competing in industry competitions helps to keep staff motivated and up to date on latest trends.

“For the younger staff in particular, the competitions help them creatively and allow them to do the most they can,” she says.

“The competitions also ensure we keep pushing ourselves.”

Located in the suburb of Nicholls, Sibu Hair is a modern salon with a relaxed vibe.

“Clients love the personal feel here,” Rhiannan says.

“We always remember our clients and treat them as friends as opposed to just clients.”

Sibu Hair has been open for almost eight years and now employs 13 staff from apprentices to senior stylists.

Following on from the win at this year’s IHS Awards, Rhiannan is preparing to travel to Victoria to compete in the national  nals for her Oceanic Masters win, which involves a total cut and colour transformation of the hair.

Sibu Hair, Unit 26, Kelleway Avenue, Nicholls 6241 1511.

Beauty and the experience of relaxing

MORE than ever before, people are conscious of not using harsh chemicals and ingredients in their skincare and make-up, according to Sibu Beauty manager Tahnee McGrath.

With a range of premium products in the salon including Napoleon Pardis makeup, Dermalogica skincare, Pure Fiji body products and Biosculpture gel nails, there is something to treat everyone at Sibu Beauty.

“What we aim to deliver to our clients is the experience of relaxation. It’s important for everybody to take time out to treat themselves,” Tahnee says.

Tahnee says the friendly team of therapists at Sibu beauty are important to the business.

“We really focus on building relationships with clients in the ambient, relaxing environment.”

Tahnee recommends Sibu’s luxurious Pure Fiji Body Polish as the ultimate winter treatment to help you relax. The entire body is polished with sugar rub followed by a warm shower and lathering of rich body butter. “It’s a very relaxing and invigorating treatment.”

Sibu Beauty, Unit 27, Kelleway Avenue, Nicholls 6241 4115

At the Property Council ACT Awards and Gala Ball

Canberra Confidential

Still waiting for ERIC

MANY Canberrans will recall raising a bucket load of cash for a second mobile humidicrib for the Canberra Hospital. We hit the $180,000 target in September 2009, but ERIC (short for the emergency retrieval intensive care cot) still hasn’t arrived!

Prof Alison Kent, at the hospital’s neonatal ward, says it’s being manufactured through NSW Health and they’ve had significant delays. “It’s a completely new design and it’s a complicated process of incorporating the latest technology required to transport babies,” she says.

And while Prof Kent maintains no lives have been put at risk due to the delays, she says everyone at the hospital is looking forward to its arrival.

“It’s a bit like the building going on outside, we’re all waiting with anticipation for its completion because it will just be better for everyone involved.”

I can confirm the prototype will arrive for trials within the next few weeks.

Wild about truffles

THE annual Fireside Festival is underway throughout the Canberra region. And my hot tip is the Annual Black Diamond Truffle Dinner at Lambert’s Vineyard on Saturday, August 13.

The chef behind it all is Chris Whitlock. He calls himself a country boy, but word has it he’s one talented man in the Lambert’s kitchen. And he loves living in the Canberra region. “We’re lucky to be in such a unique part of the world where we have great local produce and a festival that really celebrates that,” he says.

Whitlock did his apprenticeship at the award-

winning Tetsuya’s in Sydney so experimenting with food is something he loves to do. “We’ve created something really unique for Fireside with a seven-course degustation menu incorporating local truffles into both savoury and sweet dishes,” he says.

The rare, wild mushroom is an expensive ingredient to work with and adding it to the shopping list will set you back $2000 a kilo! “It’s really hard to cultivate. A local farmer may produce just 10 to 15 kilos in a year,” Chris says.

At that price, I think it’s safe to say there’s one ingredient I won’t be experimenting with anytime soon. For all event details and bookings head to www.firesidefestival.com.au

To celebrate the Fireside Festival, Lambert’s Winery has given me a $100 dinner voucher to give away. The details are at citynews.com. au/win

The thighs have it!

NEARLY every woman has a body bit she wishes she could change. For me, it’s the thighs. Let’s just say mine have a very close relationship! So when I heard about a fat-melting machine that apparently produces visible results in just one session – me and my thighs were naturally off to investigate.

The “machine” known as Cell IQ, is a laser which targets fat cells making the membrane permeable and allowing the fat to escape. And the first place in Canberra to get a hold of the new technology is Fernwood Belconnen.

But Chelsea Williams, the club’s Cell IQ manager warns against the device being used as the easy

way out. “We had one client lose 29cms off her tummy in four weeks, but you have to do 30 min utes of exercise immediately after and maintain a healthy diet and exercise regime,” she says.

So who’s had the treatment? Well now, that’s a secret but I can confirm men have been asking for after-hours access!

Putting the zip into VIP

THERE’S no denying Peter Stubbs, CEO, Thor oughbred Park enjoys a wine or two. So it’s a safe bet to say the latest construction work at the track might see him indulge in a few celebratory glasses come September.

Originally built in 1962, it’s fair to say the so-called VIP and functions area was nothing more than an embarrassment. Not anymore.

The Rich Reward Room and the Silks Room have been completely gutted and renovations are in full-swing.

“We’re very excited because the fit-out will enable us to provide unique, state-of-the-art facilities,” Peter says.

The refurb will be complete for the first race day of spring – the ACTAB Tony Campbell Memo rial Cup Race Day, Friday, September 2.

“People won’t recognise the place,” says Peter. Cheers to that, Stubbsie!

Lisa welcomes your feedback, thoughts and item ideas at lisa@citynews.com.au or follow Lisa on Twitter @Lisa_Ridgley

LIBBY

ROLFE’s diary of a don’t-worry-be-happy

Don’t sweat the small stuff

IT’S about five weeks until our Big Day and it’s going to be exquisite – an elegant, intimate celebration of our love, shared with a small group of the people we care about most.

At least that’s how I feel during the day when I’m wandering around in a state of loved-up bliss.

The sentiment is not so romantic at 3am, when I’m awake in a cold sweat, panicking about how high the heel should be on my bridal shoes. Because this is THE Big Day. Obviously, the height of my shoes has to be Absolutely Perfect because I will only get married once and I don’t want to look back in 10 years and regret my choice of footwear.

Wedding regrets are something I am particularly interested in. I’ve never met a married woman who wishes she did more, spent more, or invited more people to her wedding.

Mostly people reflect on their big day and say they wish they had kept it simple and didn’t stress so much about the details. With this in mind, my approach has been to ignore the details. Which is why I find myself with no confirmed music, flowers, photographer or rings. Not that I’m planning to go without these things, it’s just that in my efforts to avoid stressing about them, I accidentally forgot to think about them.

Many of my friends and family members are in a state of despair over my lack of organisation.

My soon-to-be mother-in-law felt the need to step in when just a couple of months out from the big day we admitted we had not decided on where to hold the ceremony or reception. Upon her suggestion that I “just get on with it ” I booked a venue. Done. Good. I had ticked a box. Then the venue burnt down! Back to square one. In the spirit of keeping it simple, there are things we have decided to do without. These include a wedding cake, those little RSVP cards in the invitations and a wet-weather back-up plan for our outdoor ceremony. Naturally, this makes the

sensible people in our lives rather nervous. The other thing we’re doing without is guests – and lots of them. We are inviting only immediate family and a few friends. We have plenty of dear friends who haven’t been invited to the wedding. This doesn’t mean we don’t adore them, it just means we want a very intimate wedding where we get to talk to each and every guest. And we had to draw the line somewhere.

Many of our guests are from interstate, so I was mindful of the need to get invitations in the post as early as possible. Eight weeks out I strolled into Pepe’s Paperie, chose a design and had a proof by the end of the week. As a former editor, it’s only natural that I’m particular about style and wording. Do I want full stops in between the letters RSVP? Where should the spaces be in the phone number? Satisfied I had these details sorted, I was impressed with my own efficiency until I realised the wedding date was wrong. And not just a little

bit wrong, it was two months out. This was not the designer’s error either. I had given Pepe the wrong information about my own wedding. Luckily, I had picked up the boo-boo before I’d approved the design.

A week later, I walked out of the store with our beautiful invitations. It wasn’t until I started addressing the envelopes that I realised the RSVP address was wrong. This is my own address. I had given the designer the wrong information – again. So we reprinted the invitations. Not only did I spend too much money, I realised I had spent too much time worrying about the wrong things. No-one cares about invitation punctuation. What happened to not stressing about details? I am reminded to focus on what the day is really about. My fiance and I. Celebrating our life together as a family with our nine-month-old baby girl, who will most certainly not have a nappy incident or tantrum of any kind on The Big Day!

IT’S one of the biggest days of our lives – and an event that can be very stressful to organise. We spoke to some of Canberra’s wedding experts to find out how to make sure the planning goes smoothly...

Plan to really enjoy the Big Day

About being confident

BEING confident in what you want as a bride is more important than having a hair trial, says Antique Salon owner Emma Luscombe.

“It’s better to sit down and have a chat with the stylist and have a good consultation,” Emma says.

Antique Salon has hair packages for bridal parties that are at a fixed price where the bridal party can gather over a breakfast of champagne and croissants. There is plenty of room for a make-up artist to set up shop in the Civic salon, too, says Emma.

“We can make the salon a really special place for wedding preparations,” she says.

Antique Salon, Unit 187B/15 Coranderrk Street, Civic, call 6248 5361, admin@antiquesalon.com.au of visit antiquesalon@ me.com

Here comes the... food

WHETHER it’s a sit-down dinner or cocktail-style wedding, Sitting Ducks can help with the food for any big day.

“We can design a menu with our expert chefs, to suit the couple and their guests,” says owner Herman Posthuma.

The Sitting Ducks team has experience catering at many popular wedding venues including the Old Parliament House Rose Gardens, Albert Hall and Crisp Galleries.

“We can help make the day run really smoothly with our expert catering,” Herman says.

From the simple catering requirement to the extravagant indulgence, Herman says the professional team can create a memorable event, from set-up to clean-up.

More information at www.sittingducks.com.au or call 6282 1631.

Marry in a heritage setting

IT’S a heritage setting for weddings: yet it remains one of Canberra’s best-kept secrets for functions, says University House’s Walter Sauer.

Many people say they weren’t aware the ANU venue existed, he says – or that it could be used by the public.

As well as offering a heritage setting with original artwork (the 1950s building was built as accommodation for academics, and has been carefully preserved), the boutique hotel and venue offers tranquil gardens which can accommodate functions for as many as 1000 guests.

Friends and family are welcome to stay back at the same venue, retiring to the small bar and their rooms, Walter says – “so it’s a one-stop-shop on the night”.

More information on www.anu.edu.au/unihouse or call 6125 5211.

Relax the week before

BRIDES should be prepared in advance so they can relax the week before the wedding, says Indulgence Beauty Rooms’ owner Shannon Hassett.

“Make it a relaxing time, not a stressful time,” Shannon says. “Enjoy it rather than let it be hectic.”

“We have the benefit of being able to do hair and beauty in the same place,” Shannon says.

Indulgence Beauty Rooms are located within TG’s Hair & Body on Genge Street in Civic.

“I love making people feel beautiful, it’s really rewarding. I love doing make-up,” Shannon says.

More information at www.indulgencebeautyrooms.com or call 6162 4247.

all about weddings

Inn for a good time

“BELCONNEN Premier Inn is the wedding reception venue you’ve been searching for,” says sales and event manager Kelly Hilder.

Catering for up to 110 guests, the semicircular event space, the Oak Room with floor-to-ceiling windows, offers picturesque views over the tree tops of Benjamin Way.

Packages can be tailored to suit your individual needs, she says.

“If you have any uncertainties regarding your day’s finer details; our experienced team is available and more than happy to assist allowing you to take pleasure, relaxing knowing all is taken care of,” Kelly says.

“Our extensive on-site facilities cater for your guests, too, offering various on-site accommodation options ranging from studio-style to fully self-contained apartments.”

More information at www.belconnenpremierinn.com or call 6253 3633.

Ceremony in tranquility

IMAGINE holding a wedding ceremony in the tranquil surroundings of a Japanese garden overlooking a serene lake.

The Cowra Japanese Garden makes a perfect venue for a wedding, reception and photos, says chairman Don Kibbler.

“There’s a certain serenity about it,” says Don, who has been the chairman of the gardens for 37 years.

“It’s got the background and landscape of Japan with lots of waterfalls over rocks,” he says. Reception facilities include a marquee seating up to 200 or the restaurant, which caters for up to 60 people.

For information at www.cowragarden.com.au or call 6341 2233.

A face of experience

WITH 13 years’ experience, professional make-up artist Melissa Delfino has worked with plenty of brides. She has made up brides featured in a number of wedding guides and publications including “Cosmopolitan Bride” in 2009.

“In 2006, I worked in Venice and Florence on brides who eloped from Australia and the UK for an intimate and romantic wedding abroad,” Melissa says.

“Make-up workshops are extremely powerful. New technique and product is forever evolving and it’s important to stay on top of things.”

Melissa says she takes on young artists wanting to get a foot into the make-up industry and helps guide and find the right work.

Melissa works all over Canberra and surrounding regions from the Southern Highlands to Merimbula.

More information at www.makeupmel.com.au

Beautiful views

FOR a venue with beautiful views just minutes from the city, you can’t go past the Federal Golf Club, says house and events co-ordinator Melissa Boardman.

“The main room looks down the 18th hole and we often have ducks and kangaroos wandering around,” Melissa says. “There are plenty of places to have photos taken on the golf course, too.”

The Federal Golf Club has free parking and caters for up to 180 people banquet style.

More information at www.fgc.com.au or call 6281 1888.

How to take care of the wedding dress

ONCE the big day’s over, it’s time to start thinking about what happens to the wedding dress, says Mark Ryan, from R&R Fabricare.

“You need to be able to preserve those memories – just like the photos or anything else to do with the wedding,” he says. “We offer the complete range of cleaning services: Dry cleaning, wet cleaning and boxing.

“Also, some people don’t have a lot of space at home, and may prefer to hang the dress

instead, and so we have environmentally friendly garment bags for them.”

R&R also provides gift vouchers that can be given as wedding presents, to have the dress cleaned and preserved. The business has two locations, Southlands Shopping Centre in Mawson and Cooleman Court in Weston Creek.

More information at www.rrfabricare.com or call 6286 3695.

Photos at right price

PAMELA van Herk says there are plenty of photographers charging too much for wedding photography.

“That’s why we offer a cut-price service for the budget conscious,” Pamela says.

At Brilliant Family Photography, weddings are charged a set price of $200 per hour for two photographers. Couples get a box of 300-500 6x4 prints and a disc of photos to print as they wish.

More information at www.brilliantfamilyphotography.com or call 0407 627289.

Look and feel the best

WOMEN want to look and feel their best on their wedding day, says Lina Prego, of Avida Aesthetic & Wellness Clinic, in Civic.

Lina says that as the bride is the centre of attention, with all eyes upon her and the top objective of the photographer, it’s vital that she feel good inside and out.

“It’s fundamental that her face, body and skin are firm, luminous and looking their best.”

There’s more to looking wonderful on the wedding day than having hair and make-up done, she says.

“It’s a whole body image, making non-invasive cosmetic procedures very high in demand,” she says.

“And why not, when you can look your very best on your wedding day, and every other day, naturally without surgery or injectables?”

Lina says the most popular treatments at Avida include non-surgical liposuction for the belly, bottom, arms and legs; cellulite removal; oxygen facials; skin lifting; permanent hair reduction; teeth whitening and body wraps.

Avida Clinic Canberra Aesthetic & Wellness Clinic, 187/15 Coranderrk Street, Civic, call 6249 1848 or email info@avidaclinic.com.au

advertising feature

Drink with a difference

PROVIDING a selection of high quality non-alcoholic wine and beer from Australia and overseas, Dry Dock Cellars offers an alternative to alcohol, says owner Andrew Percy.

Non-alcoholic and de-alcoholised beverages are an alternative to alcoholic soft drinks and juices for those wishing to avoid alcohol by preference, to moderate consumption or for health reasons. They are also an excellent alternative for the designated driver.

Dry Dock Cellars can cater for a wedding of any size.

“Some weddings are alcohol free and that might be for religious reasons, but for other weddings the client might just want a half a dozen bottles,” Andrew says.

More information at www.drydockcellars. com.au or call 0450 954129.

An old-world charm

ESTABLISHED in 1927, The Brassey of Canberra offers a ballroom enhanced by old world charm for that special day.

A range of small, medium and large rooms are available all with natural light, says director of sales Markus GibsonHuck.

“The wedding capacity for the ballroom is 140 guests depending on the style of wedding required,” he says.

“We offer special wedding packages designed for all different requests. From a small informal gathering to the most elaborate formal occasion,” Mark says.

More information at conference@ brassey.net.au or call 6273 3766.

your week in the stars

With Joanne Madeline Moore August 15–21

ARIES (Mar  – Apr 0)

Boisterous, bossy behaviour will get you into trouble this week, especially at work. You’re ambitious for success but think twice before you challenge authority figures or arouse the opposition of colleagues. Diplomacy is not your natural forte, but it’s exactly what you need at the moment. Expect a wonderful weekend when you’ll feel positive and productive.

TAURUS (Apr  – May 0)

The Sun and Venus link up in your domestic zone, so home is definitely where the heart is. But retrograde Mercury is reminding you to be more sensitive in the way you talk to loved ones. It’s the perfect weekend to spruce up your living space via a clean-up and de-clutter, or by tackling DIY jobs around the house. Fresh flowers and music are a must!

GEMINI (May  – June )

Are you trying to get closer to a child or teenager but they are pushing you away? Patience (not one of your virtues) is the key. Plus avoid the temptation to be a gossipy Gemini. If you pass on information that was given to you in confidence, you may end up feeling foolish and friendless. Instead, zip your lip and find something constructive to do.

CANCER (June  – July )

Does it seem as if your life is one step forwards and two steps back at the moment? Mighty Mars is motivating you to strive for greater goals but Saturn is making sure you’ve done the groundwork required. Jolly Jupiter gives you a confidence boost on Saturday, so polish up your social skills and start networking like a pro. No side-stepping Crabs!

LEO (July  – Aug )

Leos are proud people who love to pontificate, but heaps of hubris usually lands you in heaps of hot water. This week the Sun hooks up with harmonious Venus, which will help you to compromise – and eat humble pie when required. Be inspired by Bill Clinton (born on August 19): “You’ll make mistakes. But if you learn from them, you’ll be a better person.”

VIRGO (Aug  – Sept )

Penny-pinching Saturn is crawling through your cash zone, so financial matters are on your mind and your favourite word at the moment is ‘thrifty’. If someone else is managing your money, make sure you have your finger on the pulse and know exactly what’s going on. With Mercury retrograde (until August 27) it’s the ideal time to research, revise and rehearse.

LIBRA (Sept  – Oct )

Librans have noble intentions (and love helping others) but avoid making commitments unless you are 100 per cent sure you can deliver the goods. As birthday great Mae West reminds us “An ounce of performance is worth pounds of promises.” On Sunday, listen carefully to what a child, teenager or friend is saying – they may only be telling you half the story.

SCORPIO (Oct  – Nov )

With the Sun and Venus shining in your career zone, all eyes are on you at work. So make sure you are putting on a good show Scorpio! Thinking you have all the answers may attract an angry response from others. Compromise will get you a lot further than confrontation. If you’re looking for employment, take the time to cast your net far and wide.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov  – Dec )

Spontaneous shenanigans could backfire badly, so slow down and think things through. You don’t want to be saddled with the long-term consequences of hasty actions. Friends and finances are a messy mix at the moment so keep the two separate. You’re at your sparkling best on Saturday, as you cheer up loved ones with your sunny Sagittarian nature.

CAPRICORN (Dec  – Jan )

Cool compromise is what’s needed this week. A condescending attitude will lead to a fraction too much friction, especially with stressed work mates and frazzled family members. Canny Capricorns are in detective mode and will enjoy reading a murder mystery, solving a puzzle or researching a favourite topic. Friday favours fraternising with friends.

AQUARIUS (Jan 0 – Feb )

You’re in the mood to compromise, as the Sun and Venus bestow harmonious vibes in your relationship zone and you strive for peace in your partnerships. But Mercury is still moving backwards, so choose your words wisely. It’s time for adversarial Aquarians to be calm, kind and cooperative! It’s a wonderful weekend to catch up with family and friends.

PISCES (Feb  – Mar 0)

Avoid making major purchases or important financial decisions, as you may be biting off more than you can comfortably chew. In the present economic climate, slow and steady wins the money race. Sunday is the perfect day for creative endeavours and romantic reveries, but don’t let someone take advantage of your generous (and gullible) nature.

Across

1 Which variety of thin, fleecy, cloud occurs at great altitudes?

7 Name small guitar-like instruments, much used in the Hawaiian Islands.

8 What do we call timber sawn into planks, boards, etc?

9 Which term is descriptive of what relates to the common people?

10 What is a wise and trusted counsellor?

11 Which term describes those who enter as enemies?

14 Name the small knives used in surgical operations.

18 What is a "bicycle built for two"?

19 Name a popular, large beer glass.

21 Name the style of printing type in which the letters usually slope to the right.

22 What is the smallest particle of a substance capable of independent existence?

23 Name a colloquial term for an electrician or a telegraphist.

Down

1 Name the navigator commonly regarded as the first European to discover America.

2 What is a more common term for automatons?

3 To catch a person unawares is to do what?

4 What is another name for a sand hill.

5 Name a collection of stories of an admirable person.

6 To mend something is to do what to it?

12 What is a more common term for sacristies?

13 Name the sac-like enlargements of the alimentary canals in humans.

15 Which bird is noted for its habit of laying eggs in the nests of

all about living

With this name, I thee wed…

To change or not to change, that’s the question every bride faces after the Happy Day. “CityNews” proposed the problem to two young women with completely differing views

KATHRYN

VUKOVLJAK (nee Moss) took her husband’s name without pressure – or hesitation

FIVE years ago when I got married, I changed my name from the simple and straightforward Moss to the confusing pile of consonants Vukovljak.

It’s a big eastern European name to take on, and my husband’s three sisters found it incredible that I was willing to do so – they couldn’t wait to change their names when they got married after a lifetime of explaining how to pronounce it and spelling it out.

I wasn’t fazed – I’ve spent my life spelling out my own particular variety of Kathryn anyway, so what difference did it make?

I never really cared for Moss – at school in Wales

I was “Bossy Mossy” (I just know what’s best, okay?) and “Mosschops” (after a trippy cartoon cat on the telly). I longed for a lovely

normal Welsh name – Jones or Evans, like everyone else in my class.

It wasn’t at all important to my husband that I took his name. In fact, he half expected me not to, and left the decision up to me.

But I saw that his father was fiercely proud of it, and that his only son was the one carrying it on.

Of course, I could have kept mine, and our two children could have had his – or we could have done some dreadful double-barrelling, although with those names, that’s just cruel.

In the end, I wanted us to be a unit, with the same

name. It’s as simple as that.

I’ve particularly enjoyed inflicting my new name on my editor, who still can’t spell it and keeps a post-it on his desk to help him whenever he has to add my byline to a story.

And there’s the crux, perhaps – changing my byline as well as my name. Have I confused my readership and removed myself from my previous work? Sadly, I’m fairly sure no one noticed, and I just wanted Vukovljak to be my name across the board. It doesn’t make me feel any less “myself”, or diminish any previous achievements, such that they are.

I pretty much got the opposite of the Welsh surname I dreamed of, but that’s okay. I’m happy to be a Vukovljak, even though I don’t think I pronounce it properly myself half the time. The knack seems to be to say it angrily, and I can’t pull that off on a regular basis. And spelling it? Just type a V then bash the keyboard randomly a few times; that’ll be close enough!

MELANIE TAIT absolutely won’t be changing her name when she marries

AS we get married later and later in the 21st century, haven’t most of us carried our names for around three decades? We’ve started school with our names, won merit awards, played sport, sat exams, built careers, achieved goals, had relationships, rented houses, travelled overseas, helped people, loved people, built a life with them.

One of the benefits of living in a society where feminism has done amazing things, is we’re able to make the decisions that suit us, but how can any woman of my generation who truly believes in equality change her name?

The minute a woman changes her name to match her husband’s, she’s telling the world one person in the relationship is more important than the other.

“It’s a whole heap easier for us to all have the same name.”

Families in 2011 come in all sorts of spicy blends. Can you argue a pair of sisters with different dads or mums aren’t really family because they have a different name? Not for a second.

What’s easier about schlepping around to the bank, the RTA, Medicare, Births Deaths Marriages, gas, electricity, real estate agent,

payroll etcetera, hocking a marriage certificate, changing your name and having to deal with judgmental clerks like me? It’s actually a lot of work to change your name.

And if you have to explain to the school secretary why you have a different name to your child? Tough. It’s worth the extra bit of conversation to retain who you are.

“It’s important to him, not that much of a bother to me.”

It’s important to your husband that

he deletes a part of you that’s been with you since… your life began? Why is this acceptable? How about you suggest he changes his name to yours, and see the reaction you get? This isn’t a conversation I’ve noticed many of my friends having and you know why? It’s not fair. It’s not fair for either sex to be expected to change their name.

“If you’re such a feminist, why don’t you take on your mother’s name?”

That’s not the point. As it happens, my surname is my father’s name, but over the last 30 years, it’s become my name. It doesn’t belong to my father, it belongs to me.

The only argument I can see that justifies taking on your husband’s name is if you’ve had a rough time with your name. If you’ve despised where it comes from and have a fractious relationship with your name family.

Or if your name’s Catsanus. Or Bumston. Or Penishausen.

Melanie Tait (Twitter: @melaniejanetait) is the producer of 666 ABC Canberra’s storytelling night “Now Hear This”, next on at The Street Theatre on September 14 with stories about “Change”. If you’d like to be involved: www.abc.net.au/canberra

Free ‘Panic’, in the name of research

By arts editor Helen Musa

TO veteran theatre director, dialect coach, actor and erstwhile academic Tony Turner there is a sense of irony in his heading up the cast in the first university production to hit the main stage of the ANU Arts Centre since drama studies were abandoned a couple of years ago in favour of “cultural inquiry”.

Added to that, the director of “Panic”, the 1935 verse play by Pulitzer Prize-winner Archibald McLeish, is Andrew Holmes, a PhD student who was a product of the hands-on drama teaching Turner personified when he was head of the drama program.

Not just that. According to Turner, people are now calling the centre’s

theatre the “Papermoon Theatre”, a reference to Papermoon Productions, the company servicing the drama students of the ANU that was dropped on the recommendation of one of the many committees in Canberra that rejoice in killing arts projects rather than sustaining them. No longer. In a doctoral research project, Holmes is staging “Panic” then, in October, “Fall of the City” to investigate the nature of McLeish’s verse drama. Because it’s research, it won’t cost audiences a cent to attend, but you’ll be asked to fill out feedback forms and invited to attend weekly Q&A sessions.

Verse drama? Oh no, you may say. Another former ANU academic, Geoff Borny, has had audiences

rolling in the aisles with his comic Moliere productions in rhyming couplets, but verse drama doesn’t immediately spring to mind as theatrical entertainment.

Turner disagrees. T.S. Eliot and Federico García Lorca (on whom Holmes wrote his honours thesis) triumphed in the form. And “Panic” serendipitously hits upon what Holmes calls an “eerily prescient” theme – global financial crisis.

The main character, originally played by Orson Welles, is imperilled banking magnate McGafferty, who struggles with the effects of the 1929 crash and the Great Depression, eventually succumbing. It’s a tragedy after all.

Sure, McLeish’s language is locked

Thrilling, dazzling, exhilerating

UNDER the guidance of Ruth Osborne this program of three dance works exploring themes of identity produced some of the most exhilarating contemporary dance choreography seen in the region this year.

Each had its own compelling score composed by Adam Ventura and impressive audio-visual effects devised by Bearcage Productions.

A noticeable lift in the confidence and skill level of the dancers was evident this year in their more-assured interpretation of choreographic concepts, resulting in many genuinely thrilling moments.

For “The Land is Calling”, Jodie Farrugia concentrated on Australia’s migration history. Her large ensemble cast depicted fleeting images of early settlers, convicts and boat people to a moody soundscape and migration statistics projected on a large screen behind them.

“Precipice”, a beautiful, moving work by Adam

DANCE

“Identify”

QL2’s Quantum Leap, Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre, season closed. Reviewed by Bill Stephens

Wheeler, used just eight dancers to explore individual identity. Sensitive partnering combined with each individual dancer’s impressive technical abilities, made this piece a stand-out.

The program concluded in spectacular fashion with “Digital Face”, involving an ensemble of around 30 dancers armed with imaginary cameras and computers, for which choreographer, Anton, clearly a master of large-scale stage-movement, devised a succession of dazzling, joyfully-danced episodes for his witty take on life in the technological age.

into a certain era in the US, but Turner has been working on the dialects with a first-rate cast that includes another theatre veteran, Christa de Jager.

Much of the free verse actually reminds him of Eliot and Lorca, though he admits that the complex transposition of words makes it harder to learn than Shakespeare and the imagery in a 70-year-old play requires careful treatment to make it contemporary.

“We’re getting there,” Turner says. “This is a rare opportunity to see a play you probably won’t see again in your lifetime”. And it’s free.

“Panic”, ANU Arts Centre, 8pm, August 18-20 and 25-27. Tony

When art gets close to science

GATES-S TUART is both artist and scientist; a print-maker who researches within the area of information communication technology.

The thesis behind this work is a scholarly and complex mix of science and sociology, so it’s probably fitting that Australia’s premier scientific research body is hosting this exhibition, the result of a visiting artist residency at the University of California, Santa Cruz.

VISuAL ART

“Cracking the Finger Codes”

Eleanor Gates-Stuart, CSIRO Discovery Centre, Acton, until August 24.

Reviewed by Anni Doyle Wawrzynczak

While the artist’s thesis is scientific, her process is creative. Many iterations of fingerprints, and various marks including letters and numbers from diverse sources such as passport encodings, personal writings and computer programming language are firstly fashioned by hand on individual papers, coalesced using digital technologies and then printed as lithographs, ink-jet prints and monoprints.

These techniques result in a tremendous variety of patterns and grids that are most successful in the hand-printed lithographs

(25cmx67cm) and monoprints (30cmx21cm and 11cmx8cm). Occasionally, in the larger, ink-jet prints (112cmx224cm), the overlay of patterning is so dense that it obscures the process that makes these works so interesting and reduces an often brilliant palette to an opaque smudge.

This is a small quibble, but it speaks to a general difficulty that can arise when cerebral theses and complex processes are employed in the production of two-dimensional artworks; the difficulty lies in ensuring that the complexity supports, rather than suppresses artistic outcomes.

Yonder

‘Julius’ loses its way

THEATRE

“Julius Caesar”

Bell Shakespeare, The Playhouse, until August 13

Reviewed by Joe Woodward

BELL Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar” might be enjoyed for its clarity of vocal work alone.

The actors achieved a high level mastery of Shakespeare’s text. They exploited the rhythmic quality in a way that made it highly accessible for contemporary audiences. However, while the delivery was close to flawless, the production struggled to find its meaning as it progressed to its conclusion.

A lack of commitment to some of the conventions established in the opening scenes meant slow movement sequences and ritualised entrances and exits became adjuncts to the production rather than integral to its overall shape.

These extraneous elements were further complicated with a bizarre use of scaffolding towards the end of the play. The rhythm of the work suffered and, as a result, key death scenes were de-focused.

While the actors managed to maintain a connection to the plot and to the dialogue, it became difficult to grasp the point. Colin Moody provided depth in a very human portrayal of Brutus; yet he had his final scenes bled of coherence by some awkward stage business that both distracted and then cluttered the performance.

While the individual performances were generally engaging, the production seemed to lose its way with an unclear relationship between design, direction and ultimately what the play was attempting say.

Big, dumb grins for Captain Fun

cinema

c ameron Williams

“CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE FIRST AVENGER” (M)

STEVE Rogers (Chris Evans) wants to join the army during World War II, but is deemed unfit for service.

His chance comes after volunteering for a government project to test a super-soldier serum. Soon after, Captain America is born and Rogers must take down the scientific wing of the German army, HYDRA, led by the Red Skull (Hugo Weaving).

Grounding the character outside of the comics is hard because Captain America is a walking piece of propaganda.

Director Joe Johnston balances the emotions and explosions and delivers action in big,

“THE BEAVER” (M)

WALTER (Mel Gibson) is depressed. His wife Meredith (Jodie Foster) tries to connect with him, while his teenage son Porter (Anton Yelchin) wants nothing to do with him.

One day Walter discovers a beaver hand-puppet that becomes his sole way of communicating with the world.

“The Beaver” is a strange film that tries hard to be different but fails. The film is flawed by the concept, and director Jodie Foster tries to make this family drama as twisted as possible, but nothing works.

Gibson tries to put personality into the character of the beaver, but he’s just annoying.

thrilling doses.

Every role is perfectly cast; Evans brings heart and courage to Rogers. Tommy Lee Jones, Stanley Tucci, Sebastian Stan and Dominic Cooper shine in smaller roles, and Hayley Atwell brings strength and beauty to the romantic-interest role.

Weaving is a menacing villain, but that’s easy to do when playing a Nazi. His character is heavily underdeveloped and it’s disappointing for a great actor.

“Captain America: The First Avenger” will put a big, dumb grin on your face, it’s so much fun. Make sure you sit through the credits for a first look at “The Avengers”.

The beaver is meant to act as a voice for a deeply troubled man, but nothing it says contains anything useful or insightful. It’s not a case of Gibson’s personal life damaging the film, it’s just poorly written. The problem is the script, no actor could have pulled it off – not even the love-child of Meryl Streep and Marlon Brando.

“The Beaver” tries to be quirky but it’s a weak attempt at replicating the success of “American Beauty”, which handled the same issues better.

The film fails to acknowledge the true nature of depression and the joy of rediscovering happiness.

“RISE OF THE PLANET OF THE APES” (M)

“R ISE of the Planet of the Apes” is a prequel to “Planet of the Apes” – a B-grade science fiction film from 1968 that evolved into a cinema classic. The sequels failed to be memorable wallowing in low-budget hell that has a budget in the millions, but more in common with the sequels. Will (James Franco) is a scientist working to cure Alzheimer’s disease, who is testing his drug on apes. The story takes a turn when the subjects show signs of intelligence.

The apes are created using CGI from Weta Digital. It’s an outstanding achievement. They are believable and emotionally engaging.

Jasmin thrives on colour and vibrancy

By Helen Musa

JASMIN Durham’s been dancing since she was three years old, when she joined the Lisa Clark School of Ballet.

It wasn’t until she was 13 that she realised she wanted to become a professional dancer when, in 2006, she saw The Dancers Company performing in Canberra.

The MacKillop College schoolgirl was entranced by the applause given to local dancers who had gone on to the Australian Ballet School in Melbourne, and she wanted more of the same.

“The audience was so enthusiastic,” she says. So she started working really hard at her dance and, at age 16, she won a place at the ballet school.

Soon we’ll see Durham performing the seductive “Street Dancer” role in the ballet version of “Don Quixote”, brought here by 31 performers in the same Dancers Company.

Meantime, in the first part of the season, she’s playing the Dryad Queen. Both are completely different parts, both involve very demanding technique and both are top, professional roles, she told me.

“These are roles done by principals, after this I won’t be able to do them for another 10 years.”

For the past 15 years, Durham has

been obsessed with technique. No longer. “I’ve learnt so much about professional dancing from this tour,” she says, adding that now performance is of the essence and she’s performing 23 shows to audiences in the ACT, NSW, Tasmania and Victoria under a completely different kind of pressure. To her, “there’s no better way”.

So, heading for graduation, how will she make sure she gets noticed? Well, this year she is in a class of six girls all training intensively. The result will be a place in the Australian Ballet School or a rigorous round of auditions in Europe or the US. “Whatever will be, will be,” Durham says. Durham is thrilled to be performing in “Don Quixote”, which she describes as “very colourful and vibrant”. She loves the energy and the variety in the ballet, originally adapted from a novel based on Cervantes’ famous work.

And who knows? She may find herself leading another young aspirant to the ballet school. While here, they’ll be doing master classes for young Canberra dancers and showing them the way.

“Don Quixote”, Canberra Theatre, August 16-17. Bookings 6257 2700 or www.canberratheatrecentre.com.au

An unlovely play of inconsequence

WHAT an unlovely, inconsequential play this is.

Staged over a spattered representation of the Milky Way (that suggests how small we are in the universe), over three acts, two married couples are placed in different permutations to act out the “what if” of human existence.

Reza, (admittedly writing originally in French, so something might be lost in translation) undermines the normal conventions in comedy of manners as her characters attack each other too overtly. No subtlety here; the components are fixed – a laddered stocking, an astrophysics paper, a mistake in the dinner date, an

offstage child, and so on. Fry’s cast struggles with the rearrangements and the mood swings, but not very convincingly. At only one point, where when Ines (Debbie Newboult) makes an impassioned plea for recognition as an individual, did I see even a tinge of genuine emotion.

When tackling the ethical implications of medical research and animal cruelty the film shines. The ideas are fleshed out nicely and will make you cancel your next trip to the zoo. However, things fall apart in the final act. Director Rupert Wyatt tries to inject doses of action, but plays it too safe. After so much hype, it’s a dud finale that barely scrapes by in the closing moments.

Reviewer Cameron Williams has a movie website at popcornjunkie.wordpress.com

Regular film reviewer Dougal Macdonald is on leave

Much of this is the fault of the script. Act One gives us more background on the characters than the subsequent acts do, but why should it if it is a case of variations on themes?

In the end, the experiment seemed false and just a little bit cynical.

Where the surf meets the turf

CAPE Cod, at Deakin shops, worships all things seafood.

We do, too, so the four of us started by sharing plump, natural Coffin Bay oysters ($19 for six). They were sensational – not too cold (which makes them taste horrible) and not too warm (which makes them impossible to swallow).

We then shared the crumbed calamari, a real treat with a Szechuan seasoning and served on a tangy Asian-style salad.

My surf and turf (or turf and surf) was the best value, I thought. The tender eye fillet of beef was cooked perfectly and the Queensland banana prawns were beautiful. I ordered the dish ($38) intrigued with the Pernod cream potato. A delightful twist for sure, although the small lumps of potato in the mash were disconcerting.

One of our party is a curry nut who didn’t hesitate to order the monkfish with fresh prawns in a mild coconut curry ($32). We

dining

Wendy Johnson

were surprised that the sauce was as thick as gravy and it looked gluggy. She assured us it was and remained unhappy with her choice.

The other two went for the open seafood pie. The menu promised crusty pastry and mixed seafood on a potato mash and baby seasoned vegetables ($34). They both loved the flavours and I was offered a taste. The pastry wasn’t cooked through and was doughy in the middle. I agreed the flavours were pleasing, but noted that the pie was a bit on the small side. I feel it would disappoint someone with a hearty appetite.

Cape Cod’s wine list is interesting and we enjoyed our selections.

The service is great and we were impressed with the friendly woman who

served us. On her recommendation we squeezed in a delicious apple and pear crumble and one of the baked cheesecakes. It was decadent passionfruit and a real winner (all desserts $15).

The décor at Cape Cod, which changed hands a while back, has also changed since my last visit and the quirky piece of art on the wall opposite our table, featuring a group of bright red crabs, suits the place and made me smile.

A warning if you’re sitting close to a window; it can be cold on your back unless you’re seated near an indoor heater. I ended up wearing my coat and was still uncomfortable.

Although I love seafood, I found Cape Cod expensive and, for the money we spent, I believe there’s better value in Canberra.

Cape Cod, Deakin shops. Open Tuesday to Friday, noon-3pm for lunch and Monday to Saturday, 6-10 for dinner. Fully licensed.

Rumsey’s dark side of the keyboard arts in the city

“THE Dark Side of the Keys” is a great title for the recital of pianist Andrew Rumsey at the Wesley Music Centre’s Lunchtime Live series from 12.40pm on August 17. Last year he won the Margaret Smiles Accompaniment Competition and performed at the Australian Pavilion at the World Trade Expo in Shanghai. When he plays Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No.3 Op.37 in C minor, 1st movement, James Huntingford will play the orchestral accompaniment on a second piano. Cost is $2 or paper-note entry.

THE Fourth People’s Choice Exhibition “Squares” is now at Strathnairn Homestead Gallery, 90 Stockdill Drive, Holt, Friday to Sunday, 10am-4.30pm. Strathnairn asks its members: “What can you create on a 12x12-inch [30cmx30cm] canvas?” More fun – the prize-giving will be done at 2.30pm on August 21 by ABC weatherman Mark Carmody.

THE 2011 Canberra Contemporary Art Space “Members’ Show” opens on August 18. On the same lines as Strathnairn, there’s a size limit of 42cmx42cmx42cm and, believe it or not, you can buy the works for $100.

SALUT! Baroque’s “Northern Discoveries” can be heard on August 19 at 7.30pm in Albert Hall. What a sense of history Salut! has. “Desperate to increase the glory and political power of her husband and

Helen Musa

herself… the new Swedish Queen, Louisa Ulrika, endeavoured to mimic the French court of Versailles.” That’s a great excuse to play music by Roman, Brant, Schickhardt, Agrell, Buxtehude and Baltazar. Tickets at the door.

RETIRED chief and arts minister Jon Stanhope has been honoured widely of late, not least by Belconnen Arts Centre, whose chairperson, Evol McLeod, has announced him as the centre’s first patron, praising his “passion and advocacy for the arts”.

“WHEN people say it’s a crazy world, they’re not kidding,” says Bilk Gallery , Palmerston Lane, Manuka, in describing Dore Stockhausen’s exhibition “Fractured View”, which runs until August 19. Each piece, they say, is a miniature world that translates her concept into metal, enamel and gemstones.

OPERA Australia’s splashy production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s “The Mikado”, directed by Stuart Maunder and featuring former Canberran Warwick Fyfe as Pooh Bah will be screened at Greater Union, Manuka, as part of CinemaLive on August 13. Bookings to www.eventcinemas.com. au/Cinema/Manuka

The buds are ready to burst gardening

gardening

cedric Bryant

JUST a couple of warm days and folk come out as butterflies from their chrysalis.

As I write this it is a balmy 21C with just a whisper of gentle wind. On days like this, besides the lake foreshores almost swamped with walkers, joggers, mums with prams and more, the other popular venue is our Australian National Botanic Gardens.

Families on the Eucalypt Lawn picnicking and the joyful sound of children grateful to be free of winter pullovers and coats.

I say our Botanic Gardens as we like to claim these as our own, and yet it is for all Australians, as evident of my brief chats with interstate visitors as I roamed the gardens on this glorious day.

The shrubs have been waiting in high expectation for these days particularly after our recent severe frosts down to minus 8C; so many are displaying full buds, ready to burst into flower.

Pictured here are two examples, firstly Homoranthus flavescens with its flowers in horizontal layers providing the maximum exposure to the sun. Quoting from Wrigley and Fagg’s “Australian Native Plants” it tells us that “Homoranthus” is a small endemic genus of 22 species, most of which are in cultivation. They do not tolerate wet feet or deep shade, as with most Aussie plants.

“This spreading hardy shrub from NSW of half a metre high and spreading to one metre would suit most gardens. It is also useful for attracting nectar-eating birds”.

Grevillea bauri, from the Budawang Range in NSW, is also just waiting to burst into its bright red flowers. Growing to 1.5m with a one-metre spread, this shrub can be kept more compact with judicious pruning in early summer after the main flush of flowers is past.

Other shrubs literally covered in buds and waiting for days like this day include the prostrate form of Acacia baileyana, which incidentally is not on the environmental weeds list as is it taller cousin.

As we all know the wattles are considered by most as the true heralds of spring. Banksia intergrifolia has a myriad of new-flower buds and eventually to turn into Banksia Men and as also many grevilleas such as G. lanigera or Woolly Grevillea.

A special mention is the delightful Grevillea caleyi of Caley’s Grevillea, which is included on the Endangered Conservation Status list. This is for the larger garden, growing to 3m tall and 4m across.

I am now going to suggest you go for a walk in the Botanic Gardens to enjoy all these natural wonders and listen to the birds. Take a picnic and let the children run and look for dinosaurs in the rain forest.

One point is that not all the plants you see growing in the gardens are commercially available.

However, a good starting point is the Yarralumla Nursery where you can see so many Aussie plants coming into flower. Plus you will get the very best of advice of plants to suit your size garden, growing conditions and any special requirements.

This week

AS the days rapidly warm, we do need to check out pointers for the garden: You can identify your plants at the garden’s Botanical Resource Centre open from 9.30am to 4.30pm in the Ellis Rowan Building (next to Hudson’s Cafe)

Do not water bulbs from now on, even the small amounts of rain we are receiving are quite adequate. Check the lawn mower, maybe new blades, change the oil for four-stroke mowers and touch up rust spots. Clean and sharpen secateurs and loppers as rose pruning gets under way. Lightly prune Camellia Sasanquas now they have finished flowering to make bushier growth and more flowers next year.

Buy Multiguard Snail and Slug Killer, the safer way for pets and blue tongue lizards (these can be killed with the wrong pellets). Incidentally, this brand is recommended by Dr. Harry Cooper, the inimitable TV vet.

Season bursting with new display gardens

By Kathryn Vukovljak

WITH 40 never-before-seen gardens opening across the ACT and country NSW, a different name and a new family-friendly approach, Open Gardens Australia is gearing up for a new season of opening inspiring gardens to the public, says Richard Barley, CEO of Australia’s Open Gardens.

“Generally one of the great things about open gardens is that it’s so rich and diverse – there’s something for everyone,” he says.

“There’s productive gardens with veggies and chickens right through to larger country estates.

“What excites me is that whether the garden is small and contained or surrounded by the landscape, they’re always inspiring, and there’s always something you can take back to your own home patch.

“It can really lift the spirit.”

Open Gardens Australia, formerly Australia’s Open Garden Scheme, started in Victoria in 1987, but has been in every State and Territory for almost 10 years, says Richard.

Kelly Noonan, Open Gardens Australia’s co-ordinator of the ACT and country NSW region, says that the new name, dropping the word “scheme”, better reflects what the organisation actually does.

“We open gardens, that’s what it’s all about,” she says. “We look for strong design, significant plantings, historical significance, an imaginative approach, or site difficulties being well-handled – at least one. But the great thing about the gardens is that they’re all so different.

“This upcoming season is really a credit

to the selectors – there are some fantastic new gardens that have never opened before, so it’s a really exciting time.”

Kelly says that an open garden can be a wonderful focus for the community.

“Some people choose to put on charity events, like a sausage sizzle, a cake stall or an art show to increase the fundraising,” she says.

“There’s $6 entry fee and the owners receive a percentage of that, which usually gets donated to charity, although they’re not obligated to do so.

“The rest is distributed by Open Gardens Australia to fire and flood-damaged gardens and community grants.”

For more information, visit www. opengarden.org.au

all about property

Renovated home of style and flair

“RENOVATED with style and flair, this Garran home offers the next owner an opportunity to just move in and enjoy,” says selling agent Nicky Symon.

The formal living area and the segregated master suite of 3 Flanagan Street open on to a private and shady front courtyard while the kitchen and family room open on to the large rear deck, offering

views of the Brindabellas.

“Other accommodation includes three secondary bedrooms, a study and a downstairs room ideal for anyone wanting to work from home,” says Nicky.

“The thoughtfully landscaped back garden is a paradise for children with a built-in trampoline, swing set and cubby house.

“Inside, the polished oak floors, bi-fold café doors and plantation shutters all add charm to this delightful family home.

The house will be auctioned at 11am, Saturday, August 27.

More information from Nicky Symon, of Philip Kouvelis Real Estate, on 0418 285797 or 6285 1590.

Quiet spot beside a park

QUIETLY located opposite a park in Gunghalin sits a large separate-title villa for sale.

“Generously proportioned across two levels, the residence at 79 Alice Cummins Street, has a north-east aspect with a spacious lounge room, light-filled family meals room and a large kitchen featuring stone benches and stainless steel appliances,” says selling agent Craig Chapman.

“Upstairs features an expansive master suite with ensuite, walk-in robe and balcony, two large bedrooms with built-in robes, plenty of linen space and a large study nook.

“Outside you can enjoy the superb, covered, private entertaining deck and the double automatic garage for easy convenience.”

The property will be auctioned on site at midday on Sunday, August 28.

More information from Craig Chapman, of McGrath, on 0408 118519.

0414 622 926 3BR J

Blackshaw Tuggeranong 0402 017 912 3BR I

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